Updated August 24, 2023
A church donation receipt is a record of a charitable donation that has been made to a church. Across all States, churches fall under the umbrella of a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organizations, meaning that any individual who makes a charitable donation to a church can deduct the total value of the gift from their annual income when filing their taxes. It is necessary that the representative of the organization filling out the receipt describing the nature of the gift as well as the total monetary value.
Elements of a Church Donation Receipt
Churches often provide donors with both a formal receipt and a personal letter of thanks. If only one document will be sent, then it must include at least the following:
- The name and address of the church
- The church’s Federal Tax ID Number (also called an EIN) that verifies its status as a tax-example organization
- The donor’s name and address
- Details of the donation and the date of this gift
How to Use a Church Donation Receipt (3 steps)
1. Make Donation
Remember that gifts in kind, such as gently-worn clothing or other items of value, may also be deductible.
2. Request Your Donation Receipt
If concerned about a delay, it is acceptable to ask the church office to send the donation receipt before the tax filing deadline. While the IRS does not demand documentation from every filer, it is also wise to anticipate the possibility of an audit.
3. Credit Donation Amount Towards Tax Deductions
Church Donation Receipt – Sample
The Valley View Church
57 West Maple Street,
Scootersbridge, NY 11406
[9-digit Federal Tax ID]
April 1, 2017
Dear John Donor,
This receipt documents a gift of $100.00 that was made by John Donor to The Valleyview Church on April 1, 2017.
No goods or services were exchanged for this donation.
The Valleyview Church thanks you for your generous gift. Your contribution provides essential support to our community and helps to ensure that we are able to continue with our mission.
Kindly,
Rev. George Johnson